Hi, I’m Val!
MSW, LSW, EMDR Trained, Level 1 Theraplay® Trained, Certified AutPlay® Therapy Provider
Child Therapist | Pronouns: she/her
Owner
Bilingual: English/Portuguese
Ages: 3 to 12 | Caresource, Buckeye, UnitedHealth Care, Anthem, Aetna & Self-pay
Dr. Stuart Brown spent his life researching the value of play across the lifespan. He found that there are 8 different ways we all engage in play - yes, even adults! According to his Play Personalities, I am:
• The Explorer: I love to see new places and people and be immersed in cultures. I value being able to learn about different ways of being and honoring the uniqueness of others.
• The Collector: I have a growing collection of water bottles, tattoos, and mementos from my travels.
FUN FACTS:
Proud Mother and Wife: I'm a loving mom and wife, and my family is my greatest joy. We share lots of laughter, adventures, and plenty of love, and sometimes we are just exhausted and overwhelmed (and that is okay!).
Animal Lover: I'm the proud parent of a dog and two cats, who keep me on my toes and remind me that life is always better with a furry friend.
World Traveler: Originally an immigrant, I've learned to embrace the beauty in all cultures: one passport stamp at a time.
Neurodivergent Vibes: I am an Autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) clinician, and I am on a new journey to unmask myself while embracing all parts of me! It's like my brain is a never-ending puzzle, full of glitter, and I'm here for it!
Brain Explorer: I've got a love affair with the brain. Seriously, I find it endlessly fascinating and love learning all the cool things it can do!
About Val
Oi! Eu sou a Val e meu coração bate mais forte na sala de terapia!
Hello! My name is Val, and my heart is full when I am in the playroom!
As a licensed social worker with a Master's degree from Northern Kentucky University, my work is rooted in child-centered therapy, trauma-informed care, and the profound belief that children have an extraordinary capacity for healing when given the right space to do it.
I specialize in supporting children ages 3–12 as they process emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills through play and creative expression. My training includes EMDR, Level 1 Theraplay, and Certified AutPlay® Therapy, rooted in a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed lens. Under the supervision of Candy Ultizsch, LISW-S, RPT-S™, I am currently pursuing my Registered Play Therapist credential to deepen my commitment to this specialized work.
I also collaborate closely with caregivers, because healing doesn't stop at the playroom door. Strengthening attachment, supporting emotional regulation, and building safe home environments are just as much a part of my work as the sessions themselves.
As an LGBTQ+ ally and neuro-affirming clinician, I am committed to honoring every child's unique identity, background, and lived experience. I believe every person, no matter their story, deserves a space where they feel truly seen.
Outside of the office, I love traveling with my family and share a deep love for animals. These passions remind me daily of the wonder, curiosity, resilience, and unique experiences that shape us all!
Licensure and Certification
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) | S.2308948
EMDR Trained
Level 1 Theraplay Trained
Certified AutPlay® Therapy Provider
